As the days get shorter and the dark and cold winter can feel like it’s dragging on, the holiday season is only just beginning! Throughout the city, Seattle offers a diverse array of seasonal events filled with festivities and celebrations that aim to bring holiday cheer to even the gloomiest of days. From ballet to Finnish baked treats to ice sculpting, there is a special moment waiting to be had by everyone to celebrate the holidays.
The timeless George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker returns to McCaw Hall from Nov. 28 to Dec. 28, 2025. Performed by Pacific Northwest Ballet, it’s a classic holiday tradition featuring Tchaikovsky’s score, magical performances, and a night of unforgettable ballet! Additionally, a sensory-friendly performance will be held on December 12, making the ballet more accessible to audiences with different needs; Pacific Northwest Ballet intends to spread the holiday cheer to all! This festive ballet is more than just a performing art; it’s a beloved tradition to put everyone in the holiday spirit and immerse Seattlelites in the world of Clara, toy soldiers, and the Land of Sweets.
Putting a fun spin on traditional and cultural holidays, the Stroum Jewish Community Center is hosting a family Hanukkah show on Dec. 7. Fittingly called the Festival of (Laser) Lights, attendees should expect a dazzling laser light show, fog effects, and a soundtrack that brings the Hanukkah story to life. Other aspects of the event will include craft tables, kosher gelt, prizes, and a festive community spirit.
Beyond these interactive and exciting events, Seattle Center hosts a full slate of holiday offerings through the New Year. Some fan favorites include the Winter Train & Village, where the entire center is filled with a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland train track; ice sculpting; movie nights; campus lighting; and pop-up performances throughout the season. Plus, there’s the Seattle Christmas Market with stalls full of festive drinks, garb, and food.
Over in Phinney Ridge, the WildLanterns festival at the Woodland Park Zoo makes the season larger than life with giant illuminated creatures and beautiful holiday lights. This isn’t a Christmas-specific event, making it a great option for friends who want to experience some seasonal magic without getting tied to one tradition. Along the paths, giant glowing whales, dragons, butterflies, and other animals create a captivating nighttime experience for all ages.
Another holiday classic located in Bellevue is Snowflake Lane. Many Lakeside students have fond memories of this enchanting parade and can hopefully experience that same nostalgia this holiday season! Every evening at 7 p.m. from late November through Christmas Eve, the street fills with twirling dancers, live drummers, impressive floats, and even “snow” that falls between the different storefronts. Expect a jam-packed community full of families, kids sitting on shoulders, and friends and loved ones gathered to enjoy the show.
A classic wintertime activity that Seattle knows and loves is ice skating. Across King County, there are many places to practice your spinning and skating, all while sipping a steaming cup of cocoa. In Occidental Square, there will be a pop-up ice skating rink, where skates are available to borrow for free. Additionally, the Downtown Bellevue Ice Rink is a covered but open-air option, with themed skate nights, snacks and drinks on site, and even free skate lessons!
Seattle’s holiday season isn’t about just one tradition or way of celebrating; it’s a mix of cultures, performances, lights, food, and community moments that make this time of year so special. Whether you’re watching snow glitter over Bellevue Way at Snowflake Lane or seeing an army of toys battle the evil Mouse King in The Nutcracker, each event offers its own unique experience.
